climbing gear

I have washed my chalk bag a few times throughout the years, not that it was REALLY needed, but, I personally like to refresh my gear after sometime. Other gear I might buy new, but chalk bags I feel can just live on until they are really in bad shape and ruined, especially because they are not a matter of safety. When it comes to safety or performance, like quick draws or shoes, I would buy new, but chalk bags don't fit those categories so I just keep them for as long as they last and give them a little wash if I want to "renew" them.

I've been climbing for a few years now and have never had to wash my chalk bag. What happened to yours? Did something spill on it? I can't imaging why one would need to be washed unless you are trying to sell it or it got into an accident and got spilled on!

Either way, I don't see why it would hurt to wash it by hand and let it dry out in the sun. I know that some chalk bags have different materials in them besides the fabric, so they may not all be good for the washing machine, but by hand I think is alright, but I have never had to do it before so I am not talking from experience!

There isnt a rule that says you need one, but, if you are going to use chalk then I would say yes, you do.

You could put your chalk in plastic containers like many new climbers do, but this is really not efficient, and its very easy for the chalk to spill and get knocked over.

I think its just a matter of preference. I personally order very cheap chalk blocks online and just break them up in my chalk bag.

Not so much that it will spill out, and not so little that you have to scrape the sides for it.

I tend to have 1-2 broken down chalk blocks in my chalk bucket. But this also depends on the size of your chalk bag.

Some climbers prefer chalk powder because it is more convenient to use, allows for better distribution on the hands, and creates less dust. Others may prefer chalk blocks because they like the texture or find them easier to handle. Ultimately, both chalk powder and chalk blocks serve the same purpose of improving grip by absorbing moisture from the hands.

The longevity of a chalk ball can vary depending on factors such as frequency of use and personal preference for chalk application. Generally, a chalk ball can last for several months to a year or even longer. How quickly you go through a chalk ball will depend on how often you climb, how much chalk you use per session, and the size of the chalk ball itself.

As the chalk ball is used, it gradually depletes, becoming smaller and less effective. You may notice that the ball feels lighter and there is less chalk being dispensed. Eventually, the chalk ball will need to be refilled or replaced.